Halo-halo (from “halo” = mix) is a favorite Filipino dessert or snack. It is basically a mixture of sweet preserved beans(red beans, chick peas), coconut meat (macapuno), jackfruit (langka), pounded dried rice (pinipig), sweet yam (ube), cream flan (leche flan), shreds of sweetened plantain (saba), filled with crushed ice, milk (or coconut milk) and topped with ice cream. The halo-halo basically is sweet, creamy, and a filling dessert.

This Filipino concoction is quite popular during the hot summer months (March-June) in the country, just as ice cream is. It is usually served in tall, clear glasses that show its colorful contents that tempt one’s taste buds. One’s thirst is even made worse by the perspiring ice-filled glass, and the melting ice cream on top.

Size-WiseSave room for this special-occasion dessert by planning ahead. For example, watch portions and choose lower-fat foods beforehand.